Ukraine may have launched a significant attack on Russian soil, coinciding with President Volodymyr Zelensky’s return from a diplomatic tour of the US and Europe.
Zelensky’s Diplomatic Setback in Washington
The Ukrainian leader’s visit to the Oval Office ended in humiliation, as former President Donald Trump signalled a possible withdrawal of US support.
Trump made it clear that Ukraine would have to either “make a deal” with Russia or lose US backing.
While European leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine, Trump appeared to align more closely with Russian President Vladimir Putin, claiming they had spoken on “numerous occasions” since February 12.
However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied any additional meetings—at least those that the public should know about.
Explosions Rock Russian Oil Refinery
Hours after Zelensky’s return to Ukraine on Sunday, a massive explosion engulfed the Ufimsky fuel facility in Ufa, a city 1,165km east of Moscow.
Flames lit up the city skyline, with locals initially believing an earthquake had struck.
Reports suggest a Ukrainian drone strike may have caused the blast. However, Russia attributed the incident to technical issues at the Bashneft-owned facility, which processes up to 168,000 barrels of oil daily.
Videos circulating on Russian Telegram channels show an explosion outside the refinery before flames consumed it. Meanwhile, Russia’s defense ministry claimed to have shot down seven Ukrainian drones overnight—but Ufa was not listed among the targets.
Ukraine has not officially confirmed or denied the attack, though it has previously targeted Russian refineries to disrupt supply lines and weaken Russia’s war economy.
Last April, the Ufa refinery installed anti-drone nets to counter potential attacks.
If confirmed, a drone strike this deep inside Russia would demonstrate Ukraine’s growing ability to hit strategic targets—even without US military support. Ukraine’s domestic drone industry has already helped turn the tide in the Black Sea, significantly damaging Russia’s fleet.
Russian Missile Strike on Odesa Port
On Sunday, Russia launched ballistic missiles at a container ship docked in Odesa, allegedly carrying weapons for Ukraine.
The attack underscores the ongoing escalation between the two nations.
Zelensky’s Message to Trump: ‘We Need Security Guarantees’
During his train journey back to Kyiv, Zelensky responded directly to Trump’s demands, insisting on “security guarantees” in any peace settlement.
“We need peace, not endless war. That is why security guarantees are key,” he stated. “Europe must shape a united stance—defining the lines we must achieve and those we cannot compromise on.”
UK’s New £1.6 Billion Defence Deal for Ukraine
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a £1.6 billion agreement to supply Ukraine with 5,000 additional air defense missiles following a meeting of European leaders.
The gathering also explored the possibility of forming a “coalition of the willing”—including the UK and France—to deploy a peacekeeping force in Ukraine if they manage to secure US backing.
Trump’s Conditions for Supporting Ukraine
Trump has reportedly linked his support for a peace deal to Ukraine granting the US access to its mineral wealth, a proposal Zelensky was expected to sign during his recent Washington visit.
Despite an on-camera argument with Trump, Zelensky has since expressed willingness to finalize the deal, further complicating Ukraine’s geopolitical balancing act.
